EAT240 Coursework: Automation for Manufacturing - Chilling Station

This report details the design and implementation of an automated chilling station for a manufacturing cell. The project involves selecting an appropriate temperature sensor, specifically focusing on non-contact infrared sensors like the PyroUSB, suitable for measuring the temperature of moving objects. The report analyzes factors for sensor selection, including temperature range, target material, and ambient conditions. It explains the interfacing of the sensor with a PIC18F2455 microcontroller, including the conversion of analog signals to digital signals using the built-in ADC. The report discusses the programming of the PIC microcontroller, outlining the necessary hardware setup and software steps using MPLAB X IDE and the XC8 compiler. The report also discusses the sensor selection based on the needs of a conveyor system, and the choice of the PyroUSB sensor for measuring temperatures in the food industry. Overall, the report provides a comprehensive overview of the automation process, from sensor selection to microcontroller programming, with a focus on practical application in a manufacturing setting.